Czech and Saxon Leaders Sign Memorandum of Cooperation on Strategic Projects, Including Lithium Mining

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and his Saxon counterpart Michael Kretschmer came together in Dresden to sign a memorandum of cooperation on various strategic projects, with a specific focus on lithium mining. The agreement signifies the commitment of the Czech Republic and Saxony to strengthen their collaboration in areas such as raw material, energy, and fuel security, as well as scientific research and cross-border cooperation on climate protection.

The signing took place during a two-day international scientific conference titled “Building Bridges for the Next Generations,” held in the Saxon capital. Prime Minister Fiala emphasized the importance of science and research in laying the groundwork for future generations. He highlighted the need for bridges between nations to increase opportunities for the future. Fiala stated, “We have started building one of these bridges today.”

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, while conflicts like the war in Ukraine revealed the risks associated with dependence on unreliable suppliers. Fiala stressed the necessity of reducing energy, raw material, and technological dependence on such states. In this context, he cited lithium as a prime example of potential cooperation between Saxony and the Czech Republic. With a significant lithium deposit located along their common border, Fiala emphasized the metal’s critical role in the future of electromobility, battery production, and ensuring energy independence.

The memorandum aims to facilitate swift utilization of the lithium deposit by fostering joint efforts between the two regions. By leveraging this resource effectively, both countries can contribute to advancing technological developments and strengthening their independence. The agreement aligns with their shared interest in reducing reliance on external suppliers and securing a sustainable future.

This recent collaboration follows Prime Minister Fiala’s previous discussions with Bavarian Minister-President Markus Soder in Regensburg, Bavaria. During those talks, the leaders signed a memorandum focusing on cooperation in the aviation and space sectors. Fiala highlighted the expectation that the agreement would enhance participation in European Space Agency (ESA) programs and the Horizon Europe research program. The goal is to deepen industrial cooperation and enable Czech and Bavarian companies to participate in the new EU satellite communications program.

These strategic partnerships demonstrate the commitment of the Czech Republic and its neighboring regions to fostering innovation, technological advancement, and self-sufficiency. By pooling resources and expertise, they aim to strengthen their positions in critical sectors and ensure a prosperous future for their nations and generations to come.

Article by Prague Forum